Wills and Testaments Foundations: How Wills Work and Who Needs One

A will is the most fundamental estate planning document, directing what happens to your assets and the care of minor children after your death. Understanding wills, what happens without one, and the basics of probate is essential for every adult. This course gives you a calm, structured introduction. You will learn how wills function, the role of executors and beneficiaries, and what happens in probate. The course stays grounded in widely used principles and respects that specific rules vary by jurisdiction. What you'll learn: - Understand the purpose of a will including asset distribution and guardian nomination - Recognize what happens without a will including intestate succession state-by-state - Read the role of executors including their authority and responsibilities - Identify the basics of probate including the court-supervised process - Apply principles for keeping wills current as life changes - Distinguish informational guidance from legal advice for actual will preparation The course begins with will purposes, moves through intestate succession, executors, probate basics, keeping wills current, and closes with the line between information and legal advice. Written exercises help you reflect on planning needs. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no will background, including young adults preparing first wills, parents updating planning with new children, and adults updating after major life events. No legal background is required. The course is informational and does not provide legal advice; wills involve significant legal consequences and benefit from consultation with qualified attorneys, especially for blended families, significant assets, or special situations.